Pilates is a low-impact workout that helps develop strength, flexibility, and endurance. It is a great way to work out at home, especially if you have the right equipment. In this article, we will discuss the best Pilates equipment for home practice.
Key Takeaways:
- Pilates equipment for home practice includes a Pilates mat, grip socks, resistance bands, Pilates balls, and a Pilates reformer.
- When choosing Pilates equipment, it is important to consider your fitness level and goals.
- Follow the instructions carefully when using Pilates equipment to avoid injuries.
Essential Pilates Equipment for Home Practice
When it comes to practicing Pilates at home, having the right equipment can make all the difference. Here are some essential pieces of equipment that can help you get the most out of your home Pilates practice.
1. Grip Socks
First and foremost, having a good pair of grip socks is a must-have for any Pilates practice at home regardless of the surface and whether you have a mat. They provide traction and stability, which is especially important when practicing on a smooth surface. Our crew grip socks, for example, have non-slip soles and breathable fabric to keep your feet cool and dry during your home workout. They are also super comfortable, supportive on your heels, and can make a big difference in your workout performance.
2. Pilates Mat
A high-quality Pilates or yoga mat is another essential piece of equipment for home practice. It provides a cushioned surface for your exercises helps to protect your joints and serves as a supportive surface for a wide range of Pilates exercises. Furthermore, the non-slip texture of the mat ensures stability during dynamic exercises, promoting better control and alignment, particularly if you don't have a pair of grip socks.
Whether used alone or in combination with other equipment, a Pilates mat is indispensable for creating a suitable workout environment at home, offering both convenience and functionality for enthusiasts of all levels. An example is the CAMBIVO Pilates mat shown below which can be purchased on Amazon Australia.
3. Pilates Reformer
If you have the budget and space, consider getting a Pilates reformer which can accelerate to help you build strength, flexibility, and balance. Its sliding carriage, springs and adjustable resistance provide a platform for increasing strength, flexibility, and muscular endurance. While it is a more expensive piece of equipment, it can provide a studio-quality workout in the comfort of your own home. There are plenty of brands in Australia to pick one up or have it delivered to your house. But it will set you back at least $1,000 for a good one.
Related: What's the difference between Pilates reformer and mat?
4. Wunda Chair
Next, we have a Pilates chair, also known as the Wunda chair. It's a compact yet powerful piece of equipment that offers a diverse array of exercises to target the core, upper body, and lower body. Its unique design and adjustable spring resistance provide both support and challenge, making it suitable for practitioners of all levels. The chair's versatility allows for seamless transitions between different movements, promoting fluidity and control in each exercise. Whether you're looking to enhance muscular strength, improve posture, or increase overall body awareness, the Pilates chair is an essential addition to any home Pilates setup.
5. Pilates Barrels
Pilates barrels, including the spine corrector and the ladder barrel, are specialized pieces of equipment designed to support targeted stretching and strengthening exercises. They offer the opportunity to improve posture, flexibility, and core strength through a variety of movements that promote spinal alignment and muscular balance. Just be mindful that these larger pieces of Pilates equipment can take up space!
6. Resistance Bands
Resistance bands are a great addition to any Pilates practice if you're ready for a harder workout. They provide resistance and challenge your muscles in a different way than traditional Pilates exercises. Their popularity comes as no surprise as these seemingly simple bands can enhance your strength-building goals, by creating additional resistance and also activating a broader range of muscles while you use them. Their lightweight and portable nature makes them an ideal choice for home workouts, allowing for a wide range of movements that can be modified to suit different fitness levels. Not to mention, they are a very affordable way to enhance your Pilates routine and can be picked up at several sports outlets or online stores.
7. Pilates Ring
A list of the best equipment for Pilates wouldn't be complete with a Pilates ring. Small but powerful piece of equipment that can help you build strength and improve your posture. It is a great Pilates accessory for targeting the inner and outer thighs, as well as the arms and chest. It's quite flexible to bend yourself and set your resistance level for the body part you're targeting while promoting overall body awareness and control. The ring's versatility allows for a wide range of movements that can be modified to suit different fitness levels, making it an ideal choice for home use.
8. Pilates Ball
A home studio for Pilates isn't complete without a Pilates ball. Not the giant exercise balls you may be thinking of, Pilates balls are a lot smaller pieces of equipment that can help you improve your balance, stability, and core strength. The unstable surface makes the ball great for adding extra tension—for instance, place it between your knees, thighs, or ankles to activate those inner leg muscles. Imagine doing glute bridges with the ball held between your thighs, donkey kicks with the ball pressed against your booty or crunches with the ball placed under your mid-back. Mini Pilates balls are budget-friendly, easy to store, and incredibly versatile, which is why they're a must-have in so many home gyms.
9. Pilates Apps
Last but certainly not least, you need a good Pilates app to guide your practice Pilates at home (unless you're a professional ready!). They provide guided workouts and can be customized to your fitness level and goals. Pilates apps are like having a personal trainer in your pocket. They've got guided workouts, training plans, and all kinds of tips and tricks to help you reach your fitness goals.
